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Better season-long nutrient supply in soybean a 'low-hanging fruit' to improve upon

A recent study by the University of Illinois has identified specific nutritional needs for soybeans to improve yield and seasonal nutrient supply. The researchers found that nutrients such as phosphate, potassium, nitrogen, sulfur, and copper are critical for high-yielding success.

Estimating the best time of year for malaria interventions in Africa

Researchers estimate best times for mass drug treatment and house spraying to combat malaria, finding optimal seasons to target mass drug administration during the low season and house spraying just before the high season. The study's findings can help optimize combination of existing interventions and inform novel control measures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJan 15, 2015

Text messaging reminders increase second dose influenza vaccinations in children

Researchers found that sending text message reminders increased receipt of the second dose of the vaccine by the end of the season and brought children in sooner to be vaccinated. When educational information was embedded into the text messages, the effect was even greater compared to conventional text messages or written reminders only.

Season's eatings

Michigan State University researcher Kelly Klump found a link between women's monthly hormonal changes and intensified body obsession, increasing the risk of eating disorders. The study suggests that cultural perceptions of increased food intake as negative can be detrimental, particularly during holidays.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalInternational Journal of Eating Disorders·DateDec 16, 2014

Climate change alters cast of winter birds

A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers found that climate change is causing smaller, southerly distributed bird species to move northwards, altering the composition of winter bird communities in eastern North America. This shift is likely driven by warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 17, 2014

Media celebrate female NFL referee, but fumble deeper issues

A study by Penn State researcher Dunja Antunovic found that the media mostly celebrated female NFL referee Shannon Eastin's debut, but failed to provide comprehensive analysis of gender issues in sports. The research highlights structural barriers that hinder women's participation in traditionally male roles.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Sports Media·DateOct 8, 2014

Farm manager plays leading role in postharvest loss

A study in Mato Grosso, Brazil found that farm managers who are aware of factors contributing to postharvest loss actually experience less grain loss. The main causes of loss include harvest speed, lack of truck maintenance, bad weather, and poor road conditions. Despite identifying these issues, many farmers do not prioritize loss red...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Agricultural Management·DateAug 6, 2014

Longer catch-and-release time leaves largemouth bass nests more vulnerable to predators

A study found that catch-and-release angling creates a window of opportunity for brood predators to consume young largemouth bass. After being caught and released, the male takes an average of 30 minutes to return to its nest, allowing predators to quickly exploit the vulnerability.

Rocky Mountain wildflower season lengthens by more than a month

A 39-year study reveals that more than two-thirds of alpine flowers have changed their blooming patterns in response to climate change. The blooming season has lengthened by a month, with different species responding in unexpected ways. This change is expected to have strong effects on pollinating insects and migratory birds.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2014